Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League 2015-16 Regulations

2015-16 REGULATIONS

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TABLE OF CONTENTS: DOCUMENTS REFERENCED WITHIN THESE REGULATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 I.

THE SCOTIABANK CONCACAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE. . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

II.

THE COMPETITION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

III.

ENTRIES AND WITHDRAWALS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

IV. RESPONSIBILITIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 V.

FINANCIAL PROVISIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

VI.

PLAYER ELIGIBILITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

VII.

DISCIPLINARY MATTERS AND APPEALS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

VIII. MEDICAL AND DOPING CONTROL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 IX.

LAWS OF THE GAME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

X.

DURATION, EXTRA TIME, PENALTY KICKS, MOMENT OF SILENCE.23

XI. AWARDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 XII. STADIUM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 XIII. KIT AND EQUIPMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 XIV. MARKETING RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 XV.

MEDIA OPERATIONS AND MEDIA RELATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

XVI. REFEREES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 XVII. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 XVIII. MATTERS NOT PROVIDED FOR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

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DOCUMENTS REFERENCED WITHIN THESE REGULATIONS • CONCACAF Code of Ethics • CONCACAF Protocol for Racist Incidents During Matches • Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League Commercial Regulations • Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League Competition Handbook • Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League Media Regulations • FIFA Anti-Doping Regulations • FIFA Disciplinary Code (CONCACAF Disciplinary Code) • FIFA Equipment Regulations • FIFA Stadium Regulations • IFAB Laws of the Game

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I. THE SCOTIABANK CONCACAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE A. The official name of the tournament is the Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League – SCCL – (hereinafter: the Competition). CONCACAF, at its sole discretion can change the official name of the competition and include a Title or Presenting Sponsor in the official name and the official marks.

B. The Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League is an official event of the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF).

C. The Competition is played each year.

D. CONCACAF Member Associations (hereinafter: Associations) may enter a certain number of Clubs for the Competition in accordance with the qualification process as defined by the CONCACAF Executive Committee for each Association or Region (as is the case of the Caribbean Football Union [CFU]).

E. CONCACAF is the sole owner of the Competition and of all rights emanating from the Competition and has the exclusive right to organize, control and manage this competition. These rights include, among others, every kind of financial rights, audiovisual and radio recording, reproduction and broadcasting rights, multimedia rights, marketing, sponsorship and promotional rights and incorporeal rights such as emblems and rights arising under copyright law. Any rights relating to the Competition that these Regulations do not specifically grant to a participating Club or Member Association will belong to CONCACAF. F. The 2015-16 edition of the Competition will also serve as the qualifying tournament for the 2016 FIFA Club World Cup. G. The Competition’s Regulations (hereinafter: the Regulations) govern the rights, duties and responsibilities of all taking part in the Competition. The Regulations, the CONCACAF Statutes and all other CONCACAF rules, regulations, circulars, directives and decisions in force will apply and are binding on all participating Member Associations, officials, players and their respective Clubs and on all persons involved in the preparation, organization and hosting of the Competition.

II. THE COMPETITION A. All matches in the Competition will be evening matches and Clubs agree to play at the venues, on the dates and times as determined and/or approved by CONCACAF.

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B. The Competition will consist of two stages: 1. Phase 1: Group Stage a. 24 Clubs will be drawn into eight groups of three Clubs each. b. The draw will be conducted in such a way as to ensure that two or more Clubs from the same Member Association will not play in the same group and that the four USA and four Mexican Clubs will be drawn into separate groups. c.

In the event a “wildcard� Club enters the Competition, such a Club may be drawn to play against Clubs from its own country.

d. Wildcard Clubs are any Clubs entered into the event at the sole discretion of the CONCACAF Executive Committee, as a replacement for another Club above and beyond those Clubs ordinarily qualified to enter the event. e.

Clubs will play each group opponent twice; once at home and once away.

f.

Clubs will be awarded three points for every match they win and one point for every match they tie. No points will be awarded for matches lost.

g.

Clubs will be ranked within their group based on the total number of points accumulated in group play.

h. The first place Club in each group will advance to the Knockout Stage. i.

In the event that more than one Club has accumulated the same number of points, the tie-breaker criteria as specified in section II.C of these Regulations, will be applied to determine ranking within the group.

j.

The Clubs finishing second and third in each group will be eliminated.

2. Phase 2: Knockout Stage a. Eight Clubs qualify for the Knockout Stage as previously described insection II.B. b. The Knockout Stage will consist of three rounds of matches: a Quarterfinal Round, Semifinal Round, and Final Round.

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c.

Clubs from the same Member Association may play each other in any round of the Knockout Stage.

d. In each round Clubs will play their opponent once at home and once away e.

Quarterfinals: i. The eight Quarterfinalists will be ranked 1-8 based on their point standings from the Group Stage (and will retain this ranking throughout the Knockout Stage). ii. The higher ranked Club in each pairing will host the 2nd leg match throughout the Knockout Stage. iii. The Clubs will be paired as follows: a. Club 1 vs. Club 8; b. Club 2 vs. Club 7; c. Club 3 vs. Club 6; d. Club 4 vs. Club 5.

f.

Semifinals (SF): i. The Quarterfinal winners will be placed into the following brackets: a. SF1 – the winner of 1 vs. 8 will play the winner of 4 vs. 5; b. SF2 – the winner of 2 vs. 7 will play the winner of 3 vs. 6.

g.

Finals: i. The winner of SF1 will play the winner of SF2. ii. The winner of the Final will be deemed the Competition Champion with the loser being deemed the Competition Runner-up.

C. Tie-Breaker Procedures 1. Phase 1: Group Stage a. For Clubs that are tied on points: i. Greater number of points earned in matches between the Clubs concerned; ii. Greater goal difference in matches between the Clubs concerned; iii. Greater number of goals scored away in matches between the Clubs concerned; iv. Greater goal difference in all group matches; v. Greater number of goals scored in group matches; vi. Greater number of goals scored away in all group matches; vii. Drawing of lots. b. For ties among Group Stage winners, the order of the Club’s ranking will be determined in the following manner: i. Best goal difference;

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ii. iii. iv. v. vi.

Most goals scored; Most goals scored away; Most wins; Most away wins; Drawing of lots.

2. Phase 2: Knockout Stage If the aggregate goals between the two Clubs are equal at the end of regulation time in the 2nd leg of the Knockout Stage, the tie-breaker criteria will be determined as follows: a.

Greater aggregate number of away goals scored in regulation time in the two matches (excluding any goals scored in extra time);

b. Greater number of goals scored in the extra time periods at the end of the 2nd leg match; c.

Kicks from the penalty spot procedure as per the Laws of the Game as approved by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) and published by FIFA.

III.  ENTRIES AND WITHDRAWLS Entry Criteria A. The specific entry criteria for each Member Association or Regional Association (as in the case of the CFU), will be agreed upon between CONCACAF and each Member Association (or Regional Association) in question.

B. In the event of any disagreement in establishing or applying the entry criteria, CONCACAF will determine and apply the entry criteria at its sole discretion.

C. As a matter of principle, Clubs will earn the right to be entered by their Member Association into the Competition through fair play and sporting merit, usually through the existing national championship of the Member Association in question.

D. The Competition Champion does not gain automatic entry to the next edition.

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E. Upon entering the Competition each Club agrees: 1. To participate with its first team in all matches.

2. To ensure that its regular home venue meets the criteria established in section XII of these Regulations.

3. To play all scheduled matches on dates and times as determined by CONCACAF and set forth in accordance with these Regulations.

4. To provide CONCACAF with any requirements as defined in these Regulations.

5. To submit through their Association, the completed and signed Participation Agreement provided by CONCACAF, no later than two weeks prior to the summit or immediately upon qualification if qualified after this time.

6. To take all necessary actions for its players, officials and staff to be bound by and comply with all applicable laws, regulations, rules, codes, protocols, directives and decisions, including but not limited to, all disciplinary and appeals rules and procedures, all anti-doping requirements, all anti-match manipulation and antiracism stipulations and all marketing and media requirements.

7. To refrain from any illegal, immoral or unethical behavior that damages, or could damage, the integrity and reputation of football and must cooperate fully with CONCACAF at all times in its efforts to prevent, investigate and sanction such behavior.

8. That the Club itself as well as its players, staff and officials recognize the jurisdiction of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), as defined by the CONCACAF and FIFA Statutes.

F. Clubs will be considered to be officially registered for the Competition upon receipt

by CONCACAF of their signed Participation Agreement.

Non-entry and Withdrawals G. If an Association, or the CFU, does not properly enter an eligible Club or Clubs into the Competition, or such Clubs are unable to meet the criteria established in these Regulations (considered “non-entry�), then CONCACAF will decide, at its sole discretion, what to do with the vacant space(s) in the Competition. The same will also apply in cases where an Association and/or a Club are not in good standing with CONCACAF or a Club is not in good standing with its Association.

This decision may include:

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1. Providing for an alternate Club(s) from the Association(s) in question (or from the CFU); 2. Providing for an alternate Club from a different Association(s); 3. Leaving a space vacant and granting a “bye� to their opponent(s).

H. Once having entered the Competition, participating Clubs must meet all of their obligations including participating in all matches. Failure to participate in any match may be considered by CONCACAF, at its sole discretion, as a withdrawal from the event. A withdrawal may have a serious impact on the integrity of the event and as such, the penalties as specified below will apply except in cases of force majeure or unforeseen circumstances deemed acceptable by CONCACAF. I.

The following fines will apply in the case of withdrawal of a Club: 1. After entering the Competition but before the day of the draw for the Group Stage: A fine of $10,000 USD plus a forfeiture of any entry fees.

2. On or after the day of the draw for the Group Stage, but prior to any Group Stage match having been played: A fine of $20,000 USD plus a forfeiture of any entry fees.

3. After the commencement of the Group Stage but prior to the Knockout Stage: A fine of $30,000 USD plus a forfeiture of any entry fees.

4. After the commencement of the Knockout Stage: A fine of $40,000 USD plus a forfeiture of any entry fees.

J.

Failure to play or complete any specific match does not necessarily release a Club from its obligation to play in any other matches as may be scheduled in the Competition. This clause will apply except in cases of force majeure or unforeseen circumstances deemed acceptable by CONCACAF.

K. Except in cases of force majeure or unforeseen circumstances as deemed acceptable by the CONCACAF, a Club that withdraws at any stage of the Competition: 1. May be ordered to reimburse the opposing Club(s) and/or CONCACAF of any expenses that they have already incurred as a result of its proposed involvement or non-involvement in the Competition; 2. May be required to pay compensation for any damages or losses arising from its withdrawal;

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3. Will be disqualified from taking part in the next two editions of the Competition; 4. Will be referred to the CONCACAF Disciplinary Committee (hereinafter: Disciplinary Committee) for additional sanctions.

L. The Association of any penalized Club will be responsible for ensuring that specified sanctions are carried out and complied with.

M. Failure of the Competition Champion to participate in the FIFA Club World Cup, providing it is played, will result in a fine of $100,000 USD payable to CONCACAF regardless of any further sanction properly applied by FIFA. N. No appeals can be lodged against these decisions.

Replacement of Withdrawn Clubs O. CONCACAF will decide, at its sole discretion, whether to replace Clubs that withdrew at any stage and on what basis such a replacement may occur.

IV.窶コESPONSIBILITIES A. CONCACAF will amongst other matters, be responsible for: 1. Organizing the Competition; 2. Supervising general preparations, deciding on the Competition format, draws and the forming the pairings and groups; 3. Approving the match schedule and kick-off times; 4. Inspecting and approving venues; 5. Appointing Match Delegates and Technical Study Group; 6. Deciding which laboratories will carry out any doping analyses; 7. Deciding which matches will be subject to doping tests; 8. Informing the Disciplinary Committee of any breach of any applicable regulations for appropriate action; 9. Replacing Clubs that have withdrawn from the Competition; 10. Settling cases of force majeure;

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11. Dealing with any aspect of the Competition that is not the responsibility of any other body under the terms of these Regulations or the CONCACAF statutes; 12. Selecting the official match ball and the stipulated technical material; 13. Organizing and coordinating the post-match ceremony immediately following the 2nd leg match of the final round.

B. Participating Clubs will be responsible throughout the Competition for: 1. The conduct of the members of their delegation (officials and players), and of any person carrying out duties on its behalf throughout the Competition.

2. Complying with these Regulations (including any appendices) and all other laws, rules, regulations, codes, protocols, directives and decisions as determined in section III.E. 3. Providing CONCACAF with all the information and/or documentation requested within the stipulated deadlines. Clubs that fail to provide CONCACAF with all requested information and/or documentation within the stipulated deadlines will be imposed a fine of $3,000 USD. The fine will be increased by 50% for each repeated offence.

4. Applying for visas in good time from the diplomatic missions of the countries to be visited, when necessary.

5. Attending press conferences and other official media activities organized by CONCACAF and in accordance with its instructions.

6. Allowing CONCACAF to use their marks for the promotion of the Competition, and allow the event sponsors to use the marks in a collective form only, for the sole purpose of promoting the Competition as per the SCCL Commercial Regulations.

7. All Clubs and their players and officials participating in the Competition agree to fully respect and comply with: a. The Laws of the Game and the principles of Fair Play; b. The CONCACAF Statutes and all CONCACAF regulations, rules, codes, protocols, circulars, directives and decisions (including these Regulations); c. All decisions and directives of the CONCACAF Executive Committee; d. The FIFA Disciplinary Code and upon its entry into force, the CONCACAF Disciplinary Code. e. The CONCACAF Code of Ethics and the CONCACAF Code of Conduct; f. The FIFA Doping Control Regulations; g. All CONCACAF anti-match manipulation and anti-racism stipulations;

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h. All CONCACAF marketing and media requirements as stipulated in the SCCL Commercial Regulations, and the SCCL Media Regulations; i. All kit and equipment requirements as per section XIII of these regulations.

8. Participating Clubs will also: a.

Take all necessary actions for their players and officials to be bound by and comply with all the aforementioned statutes, regulations, rules, codes, protocols, circulars, directives, decisions, stipulations and requirements. b. Refrain from any illegal, immoral or unethical behavior that damages, or could damage, the integrity and reputation of football and must cooperate fully with CONCACAF at all times in its efforts to prevent, investigate and sanction such behavior. c. Refrain from (directly or indirectly) referring to its team as an inferior selection publicly or in the print and/or electronic media. d. Be responsible for fielding only eligible players. Failure to do so will lead to the consequences stipulated in the applicable regulations.

C. Host Club Responsibilities will include: 1. Providing a venue that is in compliance with the criteria established in section XII of these Regulations as well as described in any policies issued by CONCACAF. 2. Providing for the local transportation of the designated CONCACAF Delegates and Match Officials.

3. Providing for the local hotel rooms and meals for the designated Match Officials.

4. Providing whatever local information as may be reasonably requested by their visiting opponent in accordance with the schedule determined by CONCACAF. 5. Providing a Club liaison who will be responsible for and available to the visiting Club throughout their stay and must: a. Speak the same language as the visiting Club; b. Advise the visiting Club of recommended hotels and which hotel is being used by the Match Officials to avoid conflict; c. Meet the Club upon arrival at the airport and accompany the Club to training and the match; d. Assist the visiting Club with special requests such as arranging special menus; e. Arranging for the transportation to and from the match coordination meeting for the Match Officials, and if requested, the visiting Club’s delegation;

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f.

Make certain that the visiting Club locker room is cleaned and ready with the required provisions as per the Competition Handbook; g. Make certain that the match field is available for the visiting Club’s training session; h. Confirm that the local Club has proper insurance for the training fields; i. Confirm the seating arrangements for the visiting Club VIPs as outlined in section IV.C.6; j. Make certain that the police escort (unless otherwise agreed is not necessary) is arranged and on time; k. Any reasonable requests for the locker room on match day by the visiting Club or CONCACAF. 6. Providing VIP seating for Club officials in the best available private, secured area.

7. Providing the match tickets as explained in section XIV per these Regulations and also in the SCCL Commercial Regulations, by no later than the Match Coordination Meeting.

8. Guaranteeing law and order as well as safety in the stadium in collaboration with the relevant authorities.

9. Undertaking and arranging adequate liability insurance coverage with respect to the stadium in which the match is to be held, and adding CONCACAF and the Competition’s marketing partners as an “Additional Insured” party in the policy and providing CONCACAF with a copy of such policy prior to the Club’s first match in the competition.

10. To provide an office with an internet connection for the Match Delegates.

11. Providing a minimum of ten ball kids for each match who are 14 years of age or older.

12. If they host the final match of the Competition, assisting and cooperating with CONCACAF to coordinate the arrangements for the post-match awards presentation on the field immediately following the match.

13. Providing a segregated safe section for the visiting Club’s supporters.

14. Covering all costs associated with section IV.C. D. Visiting Club Responsibilities will include: 1. Arriving in the host city no later than the evening before the match;

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2. Providing for their own international and local travel and transport and any costs incurred in obtaining visas; 3. Providing for their own hotel accommodation and meal expenses; 4. Paying any airport taxes, laundry costs and tips as are customary; 5. Making any reasonable request for guidance, information and assistance from the home Club in good time; 6. Advising the home Club no later than one week before the match of their travel and accommodation arrangements; 7. Verifying with the home Club to ensure that their requested hotel is not being used for the Match Officials; 8. Advising the home Club of any special requests such as a training field, transportation needs, beverages for training, etc. no later than one week prior to the match; 9. Bringing their CONCACAF-provided practice balls and at least 15 bibs of each color; 10. Advising the home club of the approximate number of supporters who will be attending and if they are aware of any problematic supporters who might attend or might try to access the stadium; 11. Covering all costs associated with section IV.D unless otherwise agreed by the host Club.

V.  FINANCIAL PROVISIONS A. CONCACAF will pay each visiting Club a travel subsidy per away match as a contribution to the travel costs. This subsidy will be paid directly to the Club at least one week prior to the match.

REVENUE

B. All revenues from gate receipts accrue to the home Club, subject to the provisions of these Regulations including any levy on gross gate receipts payable to CONCACAF. C. Participating Clubs agree to submit to CONCACAF for pre-approval, the pricing plan for match tickets within 14 days of the announcement of the schedule in addition to at least 3 weeks prior to any upcoming match that is not already covered by the initial pricing plan.

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D. Participating Clubs agree to submit to CONCACAF for pre-approval, 14 days prior to the match, any plan to issue in excess of 1,500 complimentary tickets for any home match.

E. Using forms provided by CONCACAF, participating Clubs agree to submit the financial report, the box office statement within 15 days of each match.

F. Clubs will provide to CONCACAF a detailed accounting of ticket sales and will, upon request, make their records available to CONCACAF for inspection within 14 days post-match.

G. Participating Clubs agree to pay 5% of the gross ticket revenues (or a minimum of $500.00 USD) to CONCACAF for each match, less amounts required to be paid on behalf of CONCACAF to reimburse Match Delegates and Officials for their expenses. Any balances due to CONCACAF from the host Club or owed by CONCACAF to the host Club will be paid and settled in two phases: 1. Phase 1 – Group Stage: Any balances incurred during the Group Stage owed to CONCACAF by the host Club or due to the host Club from CONCACAF, must be paid within 30 days of the Club’s final Group Stage match as long as all required statements and documentation have been received.

2. Phase 2 – Knockout Stage: Any balances incurred during the Knockout Stage owed to CONCACAF by the host Club or due to the host Club from CONCACAF, must be paid within 30 days of the Club’s final match in the Competition as long as all required statements and documentation have been received.

H. All other revenues from the commercial exploitation of the Competition including but not limited to the sale of broadcast rights, sponsorship rights and merchandising rights, through whatever means, will be retained by CONCACAF as described in detail in the SCCL Commercial Regulations.

VI. PLAYER ELIGIBILITY A. Clubs will be able to inscribe a Player Roster consisting of a maximum of 30 players (30-Player Roster) no later than seven days prior to their first match in the Group Stage. If the initial and succeeding rosters lists do not include the maximum 30 players, such roster list may be increased in a manner consistent with these Regulations provided the maximum of 30 players is not exceeded.

B. Clubs will be able to inscribe a new Player Roster consisting of a maximum of 30 players (30-Player Roster) no later than seven days prior to their first match in the Knockout Stage. If the initial and succeeding roster lists do not include the maximum 30 players, such roster may be increased in a manner consistent with these Regulations, provided the maximum of 30 players is not exceeded.

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C. Clubs can register a maximum of 30 players per each stage.

D. After submission of the initial 30-Player roster list, any additions to the 30-Player roster list must be submitted no later than 48 hours prior to kickoff of the relevant match.

E. Once having been registered on a roster for a Club in any phase, a player may not be registered for any other Club in the same edition of the Competition.

F. A player already registered by a Club cannot be deleted from the roster, for the stage he was registered, regardless of the reason.

G. Players must be registered to the Club and the appropriate Association and eligible to play in any league match for the current playing season per the FIFA transfer deadlines in each country.

H. Reinforcement players cannot be registered.

I.

All players that will travel to away matches must have a legal individual passport (or other documents that will enable them to travel to play in away matches) containing an up-to-date photograph and giving full particulars on the date of birth (day, month and year) of the player.

J.

In the case of players participating only in home matches, or matches within their own country, they must have a valid passport, driver’s license or other state-issued means of identification containing an up-to-date photograph and giving full particulars on the date of birth (day, month and year) of the player.

K. Additional players properly contracted to a Club during the relevant FIFA registration periods may also be registered to the Player Roster so long as the maximum of 30 registered players is not exceeded.

L. After arrival at the venue and no later than 90 minutes prior to any match, a representative from each Club must submit to the General Coordinator, or other authorized CONCACAF official, their match roster of 18 players, selected from within the previously submitted 23-Player Roster, and should also have the aforementioned identification documentation for verification if needed. Any player without the relevant documentation may be deemed ineligible to play.

M. Any Club found to have fielded an ineligible player will forfeit the match. If the result of the match was a victory or a tie in the Group Stage for the Club fielding the ineligible player, three points will be awarded to the opposing Club on the basis of a 3-0 score, or higher depending on the result of the match. This incident will be recommended to the Disciplinary Committee for further review.

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VII.  DISCIPLINARY MATTERS AND APPEALS A. Disciplinary Committee 1. The Disciplinary Committee is responsible for enforcing the regulations of the Competition. The Disciplinary Committee may suppletorily apply the FIFA Disciplinary Code until the entry into force of the CONCACAF Disciplinary Code (when it will apply subsidiarily). In particular, the Disciplinary Committee may pronounce the sanctions described in these regulations, the CONCACAF Statutes and all other CONCACAF rules, regulations and codes as well as the FIFA Disciplinary Code (and, upon its entry into force, in the CONCACAF Disciplinary Code).

2.

In cases of infringement of these or any applicable Regulations or unsporting behavior on the part of the participating Clubs, their players, staff and/or officials, or in any kind of incident, the Disciplinary Committee is empowered to: a.

Admonish, sanction, fine, apply a Group Stage point penalty, suspend and/ or disqualify Clubs, their players, staff and/or officials. b. Take action against any person(s), Club(s) or Member Association(s) which incurs in such infringement of these or any applicable Regulations (which include the Laws of the Game and the rules of Fair Play).Prohibit violators from participating in a specific number of CONCACAF organized competitions in which they might otherwise have participated.

3. The Disciplinary Committee may refer to the CONCACAF Executive Committee, any matter relating to an infringement of these Regulations as it sees fit whether for further sanction or any other reason.

4. The Disciplinary Committee decisions may be based upon written record or by conducting a hearing.

5. When making a decision, the Disciplinary Committee may refer to the reports made by the Match Delegates, Officials or any other CONCACAF staff or officials present. Such reports may be used as evidence but only in so far as the disciplinary aspects of the case being dealt with are concerned and will not affect a referee’s decision regarding facts connected with play.

6.

At its discretion, the Disciplinary Committee may convene a personal hearing and will decide any procedures to be followed. Decisions of such hearings will only be valid if at least three members of the Disciplinary Committee are present.

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7. The following decisions of the Disciplinary Committee will not be subject to appeal: a.

Cautions and censures imposed on players, Match Officials, Clubs (staff and officials), other persons, or Member Associations. b. Suspensions of up to two matches, or of up to two months, imposed on players, Match Officials, Clubs (staff and officials) or other persons. c. Fines imposed on players, Match Officials, Clubs (staff and officials), other persons (not exceeding $10,000 USD) or Member Associations (not exceeding $30,000 USD).

8. The appropriate Association under the provisions of its own regulations may punish any offenses that are committed during the course of the Competition

by Club officers, technicians or other personnel for Championships and Competitions. For this purpose, the Disciplinary Committee will refer to the appropriate Association the referee's report of the match in question. The Association will, in turn, report back to the Disciplinary Committee on the resolution of the matter and any disciplinary action taken.

9. Except in cases of force majeure as recognized by CONCACAF, if a Club does not report for a match, or refuses to commence or continue to play, or leaves the stadium before the end of the match, the Club will be considered to have lost the match with a score of 3-0 or more. In any case, the matter will also be referred to the Disciplinary Committee for appropriate actions.

10. Any other infringement of these Regulations, whether by Players, Officials, Clubs or Associations that are punishable by economic sanctions will be reported to the General Secretariat for consideration by CONCACAF. 11. All imposed economic sanctions must be paid no later than 60 days after notification of the relevant decision. Unless otherwise specified, the total amount of all fines will accrue to CONCACAF. CONCACAF may debit accounts of debtors to settle any amounts due to the Confederation.

B. CONCACAF Appeals Committee 1. The CONCACAF Appeals Committee will hear appeals eligible to be lodged against decisions taken by the Disciplinary Committee.

2. The CONCACAF Appeals Committee may suppletorily apply the FIFA Disciplinary Code until the entry into force of the CONCACAF Disciplinary Code (when it will apply subsidiarily). In particular, the CONCACAF Appeals Committee may conduct any appeal procedures in accordance with the FIFA Disciplinary Code.

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3. The CONCACAF Appeals Committee will reach its decisions on the basis of the documents and the other means of evidence contained in the Disciplinary Committees file. The CONCACAF Appeals Committee may additionally, at its sole discretion, also consider additional evidence, including television and video recordings, which it considers relevant.

4. Any party intending to appeal must inform the CONCACAF Appeals Committee, via the CONCACAF General Secretariat, of its intention to do so in writing within three days of notification of the decision.

5. Anyone wishing to lodge an appeal must transfer an appeal fee of $3,000 USD to CONCACAF’s bank account and submit confirmation of such transfer before expiry of the time limit for submitting the appeal. Such confirmation must be e-mailed to the CONCACAF General Secretariat at general.secretariat@ concacaf.org.

6. If the aforementioned requirements have not been complied with, the appeal is not admissible.

7. Decisions pronounced by the Appeals Committee are final and binding within CONCACAF. C. Protests 1. For the purpose of these Regulations, protests are objections of any kind related to events or matters that have a direct effects on matches, including but not limited to the state of and markings on the pitch, accessory match equipment, eligibility of players, stadium installations and footballs.

2. Anyone wishing to lodge a protest must transfer a protest fee of $500 USD to CONCACAF’s bank account and submit confirmation of such transfer before expiry of the time limit for submitting the protest. Such confirmation must be e-mailed to the CONCACAF General Secretariat at general.secretariat@ concacaf.org.

3. Unless otherwise stipulated in this article, protests must be submitted in writing to the CONCACAF Match Commissioner within two hours of the match in question and followed up immediately with a full written report, including a copy of the original protest, to be sent in writing to the CONCACAF General Secretariat at general.secretariat@concacaf.org 4. Protests regarding the eligibility of players registered for matches must be submitted in writing to the CONCACAF General Secretariat no later than forty-eight hours before the match in question.

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5. Protests regarding the state of the pitch, its surroundings, markings or accessory items (e.g. goals, flag posts or footballs) must be made in writing to the referee before the start of the match by the head of delegation of the Club lodging the protest. If the pitch’s playing surface becomes unplayable during a match, the captain of the protesting Club must immediately lodge a protest with the referee in the presence of the captain of the opposing Club. The protests must be confirmed in writing to the CONCACAF Match Commissioner by the head of the Club delegation no later than two hours after the match.

6. Protests against any incidents that occur during the course of a match must be made to the referee by the Club captain immediately after the disputed incident and before play has resumed. The protest must be confirmed in writing to the CONCACAF General Coordinator by the head of the Club delegation no later than two hours after the match.

7. No protests may be made against the Referee’s decisions on points of fact connected with play, such decisions being final. If an unfounded or irresponsible protest is lodged, the CONCACAF Disciplinary Committee may impose a sanction.

8. If any of the formal conditions of a protest as set out in these Regulations are not met, such protest shall be disregarded by the competent body. Once the final match of the Competition has ended, any protest described in this article shall be disregarded.

9. CONCACAF will pass decisions on any protests lodged.

D. Disciplinary Procedures – Players 1. Notwithstanding the above provisions, any player cautioned or sent from the field of play by the Referee will be subject to the sanctions specified in VII.D.2, VII.D.3 and VII.D.4. Such punishments are automatic and are not subject to appeal. These punishments may be augmented by the Disciplinary Committee and any such augmentation is subject to the appeals process previously defined.

2. Any player sent off the field of play, whether directly (a straight red card) or as a result of two cautions (two yellow cards) in the same match, is at a minimum, suspended for the next match.

3. Any player who accumulates two single yellow cards in two different matches in the Competition is suspended for the following match. Thereafter, each time a player accumulates two single yellow cards in two different matches, he will be suspended for the following match with the exception that single cautions will be eliminated at the end of the Quarterfinal round and at the end of the Knockout Stage.

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4. Unserved suspensions as a result of a red card will be carried over to the following edition of the Champions League in which a player is eligible to participate.

5. Clubs and other persons bound by these regulations will not bring disputes before ordinary courts of law. Instead of recourse to ordinary courts of law, provision will be made for arbitration. Such disputes will be taken to an arbitration tribunal recognized by CONCACAF or to CAS.

VIII.  MEDICAL AND DOPING CONTROL A. In regards to non-traumatic loss of consciousness during a game, the referee will assume sudden cardiac failure until proven otherwise. The hand signal is the right hand fist against the chest. Such signal will indicate to the team doctor and the medical emergency team (stretcher team) to immediately institute comprehensive resuscitation that includes the use of a defibrillator (AED) and CPR. It is the responsibility of the organizing association to ensure that there is a properly functioning AED immediately at hand and that there is an ambulance with an access and egress plan.

B. CONCACAF will not be held liable for any injury sustained by any participating player. Equally, CONCACAF will not be held liable for any incident (e.g. death) linked to any injury or health problems of any participating player.

C. Each participating Club will be responsible, throughout the Competition, for providing health, travel and accident insurance coverage for all members of its delegation.

D. Doping is strictly prohibited. The FIFA Anti-Doping Regulations, the FIFA Disciplinary Code and all other relevant FIFA as well as CONCACAF Regulations, circulars and directives will apply to all CONCACAF competitions.

E. Every player may be subject to in-competition testing at the matches in which he competes and to out-of-competition testing at any time and place.

F. If, in accordance with the FIFA Doping Control Regulations, a player tests positive for the use of banned substances, he will be immediately declared ineligible from further participation in the Competition and will be subject to further sanctions from the Disciplinary Committee.

G. The home Club must provide a doctor who will be available to both teams (if the visiting club does not bring their own) and will sit beside the Fourth Official’s bench.

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IX. LAWS OF THE GAME A. All matches will be played under the Laws of the Game as approved by IFAB. B. In the case of any discrepancy between the different language versions of the Laws of the Game, the English language version will be considered authoritative.

C. A maximum of seven substitute players and seven Club officials are permitted on the substitute bench provided that their names and their functions are indicated on the form provided by the General Coordinator prior to the match. Note: a suspended player or official will not be allowed to sit on the substitute’s bench. No other players, team staff or delegates will be allowed on the field during the match.

X. DURATION, EXTRA TIME, PENALTY KICKS,

MOMENT OF SILENCE A. Each match will last 90 minutes, comprising of two 45-minute periods with an interval of 15 minutes in between each half.

B. If the score is tied at the end of regulation time in the Group Stage, the result will stand as a tie.

C. In the Knockout Stages, if the score is tied at the end of regulation time of the second leg, extra time will be played.

D. If, in accordance with the provisions of these Regulations, extra time must be played as a result of the two Clubs being tied on total goals scored and total away goals scored following the second leg of a home and away knockout series, it will consist of two periods of 15 minutes each, with an interval of five minutes at the end of normal playing time, but not between the two periods of extra time.

E. Should one Club score more goals in extra time than the other, it will be declared the winner. Away goals will not be applied as criteria for tie-break purposes in the extra time.

F. If the Clubs are still tied at the end of extra time, kicks from the penalty mark will be taken to determine the winner in accordance with the Laws of the Game.

G. Clocks in the stadium showing the amount of time played may run during the match, provided that they run up (from 0’-45’ in the first half and 45’-90’ in the second half) and that they are stopped at the end of normal playing time in each half. This stipulation will also apply in the event of extra time being played.

H. At the end of the two periods of regular playing time, the Referee will indicate to the Fourth Official, either orally or by gesturing with his hands, the number of minutes he has decided to allow for time lost. This applies also to the two periods of 15 minutes of extra time. Each allowance for lost time will be announced to the public

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by the Fourth Official using the electronic display boards and by the public address announcer.

I.

If a match is stopped by the Referee before the end of normal time or during any extra time because of any force majeure or any other incidents such as, but not limited to, the field is not fit for play, weather conditions, floodlight failure, etc., the following must be allowed: 1. The match is automatically suspended for the duration of thirty minutes to allow conditions to improve sufficiently to restart the match, unless the referee decides that the match can be resumed earlier.

2. At the discretion of the Referee, another suspension of a maximum of thirty minutes will be allowed if in the referee’s opinion this extra period of suspension will allow the match to be resumed. Otherwise, at the end of this second thirty minute period, the Referee must declare the match to have been abandoned.

3. In the event the match is abandoned, play will resume the following day at the point where it was stopped and played to completion, thus avoiding considerable extra expense for the visiting Club. If it is still impossible to complete the match the next day for the same reasons, the completion of the match may be postponed by one additional day provided both Clubs agree. If the match can still not be played on the third day, CONCACAF will determine how and when the match will be completed. The expenses thus incurred by the visiting Club will be divided equally between the two Clubs.

J.

The following principles will apply to the recommencement of the match: 1. The match will recommence with the same players on the field and substitutes available as when the match was initially abandoned; 2. No additional substitutes may be added to the list of players on the start list; 3. The Clubs can make only the number of substitutions to which they were still entitled when the match was abandoned; 4. Players sent off during the abandoned match cannot be replaced; 5. Any sanctions imposed before the match was abandoned remain valid for the remainder of the match; 6. The kick-off time, date (foreseen for the following day) and location will be decided by CONCACAF in consultation with the participating Clubs; 7. Any matters requiring further decision will be treated by CONCACAF.

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K. If the match cannot commence on time due to force majeure or any other incidents such as, but not limited to, the field is not fit for play, weather conditions, floodlight failure, etc. the following procedures must be followed: 1. The match must first be delayed for a minimum of thirty minutes, unless the Referee decides that the match can commence earlier, before a decision to reschedule the match is taken; 2. At the discretion of the Referee, another delay of a maximum of thirty minutes will be allowed if in the referee’s opinion this extra period of delay will allow the match to commence; 3. Otherwise, at the end of this second thirty minute period, the Referee must declare the match to have been cancelled; 4. In the case of a cancelled match, CONCACAF will decide within two hours of the Referee’s decision to cancel the match, whether the match can be rescheduled (taking sporting and organizational considerations into account), or whether any other action and decision is needed to continue with the Competition. Any disciplinary sanctions resulting from the cancelled match will remain in force.

XI. AWARDS A. The Champion of the Competition will be entitled to be referred to as the “CONCACAF Club Champion” and will represent CONCACAF in the FIFA Club World Cup and/or other properly constituted Club competitions requiring the participation of the CONCACAF Club Champion for a given year, if called upon to do so.

B. The Competition Champion will receive a trophy from CONCACAF for its permanent possession and will also receive 50 Gold medals.

C. The Competition Runner-up will receive 50 Silver medals.

D. Referees for both final matches will receive commemorative medals.

E. Additional medals may be produced upon request and at the cost of the requesting Club.

F. Separate trophies will be given to individual award winners.

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XII. STADIUM A. Each Club organizing matches in the Competition will be responsible to ensure that the stadium and its facilities comply with the standards of safety and security required for international matches, including venue staffing levels as per FIFA Stadium regulations.The fields of play, facilities and accessory equipment will be in optimum condition and must comply with the provisions stipulated in the Laws of the Game and all other relevant regulations.

B. Unless stipulated otherwise in these Regulations, matches in this Competition must be played in a stadium which meets all the requirement of and standards as stated in the Competition Handbook. Participating Clubs must ensure that their stadium meets the aforementioned requirements and standards no later than 45 days prior to the first match.

C. CONCACAF will conduct stadium inspections: 1. If deemed necessary by CONCACAF before or during the Competition; 2. No later than 45 days prior to a match in any round for a stadium that will act as a substitute for the participants home stadium, after initial inspections have already been conducted; 3. If a substitute stadium must be utilized after inspections of the primary stadium have already been completed, and at any time after the commencement of the Competition, the cost of the inspection will be charged to the Club and/or the Association who requested this change; 4. If a secondary or a follow-up inspection is required, the cost of the additional inspection(s) will be charged to the Club.

D. Home Stadium 1. The home stadium selected by the participating Club should be the regular stadium used by the Club for its home matches; 2. In the event that the Club’s regular stadium does not meet the minimum criteria established in these Regulations and other CONCACAF policy documents, the Club will be required to make all reasonable efforts, determined at the sole discretion of CONCACAF, to cause the stadium to meet such standards at no cost to CONCACAF; 3. If after exhausting all reasonable efforts, the Club’s usual stadium does not meet the minimum criteria, Clubs will be permitted to select an alternate stadium, which is subject to the approval by CONCACAF, as their home stadium provided such stadium is located within the same country.

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4. Any Club permitted or required, under the terms of these Regulations, to play a home match in a stadium not ordinarily their own, does so at entirely its own cost.

5. If no alternative stadium is available, then the Club will forfeit their entry into the tournament and CONCACAF will decide on a replacement at its sole discretion.

E. Stadium Availability 1. Stadiums must be available to be used for the Competition on days and times as determined by CONCACAF. 2. If a substitute stadium is used, CONCACAF will request verification of compliance from the ownership ensuring its availability for the match dates.

3. Stadiums must be made available at least two days before each match in the group stage and three days prior to any match in the knockout stage, for CONCACAF staff and officials to conduct walk-throughs , to install signage and to conduct any other activity reasonably requested.

4. Stadiums must be made available to visiting Club for the purposes of a onehour training the day before the scheduled match unless such training would, in the view of the Referee, Match Commissioner or other CONCACAF officials, cause excessive damage to the playing surface.

5. If the visiting Club cannot train on the match field, the home Club must advise the reasons why the field is not available, allow the visiting Club to do a walk around of the field to get used to the stadium and make a field of comparable quality and surface available at no cost to them.

F. Stadium Seating and Ticketing 1. Matches may only be played in an all-seated stadium.

2. If a stadium with both seating and standing areas are available, the standing space must remain vacant.

3. At least 5% of the total stadium capacity must be available exclusively for visiting supporters in a secured, segregated area of the stadium.

4. Field-side seating is not permitted and all non-permanently affixed seating must be approved by CONCACAF. G. Field Surface and Condition 1. The matches of the Competition may be played on natural or artificial surfaces.

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2. If an artificial pitch is used, the surface must meet FIFA’s requirements for artificial turf.

3. Clubs must comply with CONCACAF’s match-day field watering guidelines as described in the Competition Handbook.

4. If the home Club considers the field unfit for play, CONCACAF will be informed immediately, as well as the visiting Club and the Match Officials before their departure. If the host Club fails to do this, it will be obliged to cover all of the expenses incurred for travel, board and lodging of the parties involved.

5. If there is any doubt regarding the condition of the field once the visiting Club and the Match Officials have already left for the host city, the Referee will decide whether the field is playable or not. If the Referee declares the field unplayable, the procedure to be followed is described in section X.K. 6. However, if prior to the match kickoff time the home Club is not able to rectify the pitch in accordance with the Laws of the Game, the home Club will forfeit the match. The victory, a score of 3-0 and the resulting three points will be awarded to the opposing team. The matter will also be referred to the Disciplinary Committee for appropriate action.

7. Each stadium must have sufficient space, either behind both goals or behind Assistant Referee No. 1, to allow the players to warm up during the matches.

H. Lighting 1. Since all matches are evening matches, they may be played only at stadiums where the whole field is evenly lit to at least 800 lux.

2. An emergency power generation system will be available which, in the event of a power failure, guarantees sufficient light for the safe egress of those in attendance.

I.

Official Training 1. Weather permitting and based on the condition of the pitch, the visiting Club will be given preference to the time they wish to train on Match Day -1 (MD-1).

If stadium lighting is required for training, then it will be provided by the home Club at no extra charge to the visiting Club.

2. If the match is to be played on an artificial pitch, then the visiting Club will be permitted a minimum of two one-hour training sessions that can be used consecutively or separately on Match Day -2 (MD-2) or Match Day -1 (MD-1).

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3. If either Club chooses not to train at the stadium, they must inform the General Coordinator of their Official Training time and location as long as it was previously approved by CONCACAF. This will be treated as the Official Training Session.

J.

Stadium Signage and Audio/Visual Branding 1. Each stadium must provide CONCACAF with “Exclusive Areas” that are free of any commercial signage and/or advertising (whether temporary or permanent) whatsoever, including corporate, civic, or Club marks. The “Exclusive Areas” are further defined in the SCCL Commercial Regulations. These “Exclusive Areas” should be provided to CONCACAF on both (MD-1) and (MD).

2. There can be no restrictions, except in cases of national law, on what signage may be permitted to be displayed in the stadium by CONCACAF. Further details are included in the SCCL Commercial Regulations.

3. No commercial messages, other than those approved by CONCACAF, may be read over the public address system prior to, during and after a match. Further details are included in the SCCL Commercial Regulations.

4. If the stadium has a stadium video screen, message boards, LED boards, or any other similar digital medium, these will exclusively be reserved for CONCACAF on MD-1 and MD. Usage of these assets by the Club or any third party will need to be approved by CONCACAF explicitly and in writing. The use of such digital mediums will be provided to CONCACAF at no additional cost above and beyond the board operator expenses. Further detail included in the SCCL Commercial Regulations.

5. Each home Club will provide a public-address announcer and scoreboard operator to serve at CONCACAF’s direction during each match. Further detail included in the SCCL Commercial Regulations.

K. Stadium Security 1. For each match, the home Club will be responsible for developing a security plan which will provide for the safety of all participants including home Club, visiting Club, and CONCACAF staff, officials and delegates from the time of arrival into the stadium until they depart. The plan will also provide for a safe environment for spectators attending the match including a separately secured access and seating area for the visiting spectators, and security checks of each individual and any bags they wish to bring into the stadium.

2. A copy of this security plan must be provided by the home Club to the Match Commissioner at the Match Coordination Meeting.

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3. Home Clubs will also ensure the ability to manage any controlled zones including areas reserved for Clubs, officials, guests, delegates, staff, media or other groups as defined by CONCACAF. 4. CONCACAF reserves the right to require any home stadium to implement a credentialing system of CONCACAF’s choosing.

5. CONCACAF reserves the right to require additional security be provided, at its own discretion, and participating Clubs agree to provide such cooperation as may be required at its own cost.

6. The home Club and its Member Association may be subject to disciplinary measures if appropriate security arrangements are not provided. Sanctions may include fines and/or suspensions.

L. Smoking is not permitted in the competition areas such as the dressing rooms, the tunnel areas, the technical areas, and the pitch perimeter areas.

XIII.  KIT AND EQUIPMENT A. The Participating Clubs will comply with the FIFA Equipment Regulations in force.

The display of political, religious, or personal messages or slogans in any language or form by players and officials on their playing or team kits, equipment (including kit bags, beverage containers, medical bags, etc.) or body is prohibited. The similar display of commercial messages and slogans in any language or form by players and officials is not allowed at any official activity organized by CONCACAF (including in the stadiums for official matches and training sessions, as well as during official media conferences and mixed-zone activities). Any violations will be dealt with by the Disciplinary Committee in accordance with the FIFA Disciplinary Code and, upon its entry into force, with the CONCACAF Disciplinary Code.

B. Uniform colors 1. Each Club will inform CONCACAF of at least two different and contrasting colors (one predominately dark and one predominately light) for its official and reserve kits (shirt, shorts and socks). In addition, each Club will select three contrasting colors for the goalkeepers. These three goalkeeper kits must be distinctly different and contrasting from each other as well as different and contrasting from the official and reserve kits. Further information regarding uniforms can be found in the SCCL Competition Handbook.

2. CONCACAF will inform the Clubs of the colors that they will wear for each match.

3. Each Club will have at least two uniforms of different colors for their field players and goalkeepers which do not conflict with the Club uniform colors.

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C. Club kit approval procedures 1. Each participating Club will provide CONCACAF with exact samples with numbers of the following equipment no later than the Summit: a. Official and reserve player kits (one set each of shirts, shorts, socks); b. One set of each goalkeeper’s kit (shirts, shorts, socks); c. Goalkeeper’s gloves and caps.

D. If the Referee determines that a change needs to be made, he will consult with Match Delegates on the changes and then advise the Clubs accordingly.

E. Player Names 1. Players may be identified by their last name or an abbreviation or nickname on their shirts, as long as the name is listed on the Player Roster and the player is officially recognized by that name.

2. The size of the lettering must comply with the requirements in the FIFA Equipment Regulations.

F. Numbers will be displayed on the back of the jersey and on the shorts in accordance with the FIFA Equipment Regulations.

G. In addition to all of the above (and as the only exception), each club will supply a set of goalkeeper shirts without names or numbers. These shirts will only be used in those special circumstances in which an outfield player must take the position of goalkeeper during a match. This extra set of goalkeeper shirts must be provided in the same colors as the regular goalkeeper shirts.

H. Sponsor Advertising 1. Teams must wear the uniform worn in their domestic league competitions.

This may include, but must not exceed, such sponsor advertising as is normally displayed on the uniform for such games.

2. Teams must provide a “Sleeve free zone” on both sleeves of the uniforms used to accommodate the official Competition patch (or patches) as defined in the SCCL Commercial Regulations.

3. The advertising of tobacco or distilled spirits, as well as slogans of a political, religious or racist nature or for other causes that offend common decency, is prohibited.

I.

Sleeve patches with the official Competition logo will be provided by CONCACAF and affixed on the right-hand sleeve of each shirt. A different CONCACAF campaign logo may be affixed on the left-hand sleeve.

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J.

CONCACAF will provide official armbands for the captains of each team to wear during the Champions League matches.

K. Footballs 1. The footballs used in the Competition will be selected and exclusively supplied

by CONCACAF. The footballs will conform to the provisions of the Laws of the Game and the FIFA Equipment Regulations. They will bear one of the following three designations: the official “FIFA APPROVED” logo, the official “FIFA INSPECTED” logo or the “INTERNATIONAL MATCHBALL STANDARD” reference and cannot be marked in any way by the Club.

2. Prior to each stage, each Club will receive footballs from CONCACAF to be used for training and for the official match. Only these balls delivered by CONCACAF may be used for official training and warm-up sessions in the stadiums and at the training sites.

L. Warm-up bibs 1. Only CONCACAF provided warm-up bibs may be used during official training sessions held at the stadium and for the warm-up of players during the match.

2. The bibs used by each Club must be in contrasting colors to their uniform color and the opposing Club’s uniforms and bibs.

M. Other equipment 1. The use of any communication equipment and/or systems between and/or amongst players and/or technical staff is not permitted.

XIV. MARKETING RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS Upon entering the Champions League, Clubs agree to the following relating to sponsorship and marketing: A. Participating Clubs agree to develop and submit to CONCACAF a detailed marketing, communications and advertising plan two months prior their participation in the Competition.

B. Plan should include specific ways in which the Club plans to promote its participation in the Competition using: •

Club webpage (at a minimum include the SCCL Champions League logo and link to CONCACAF’s Official SCCL webpage) from the date of the official draw until the end of the Club’s participation in the Competition;

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• • • • • •

Social media (existing platforms and Club strategy); Marketing; Advertising; Ticket promotion; Public relations; And any other relevant market insights.

C. All intellectual property and commercial rights (including television, radio, internet, and merchandise) associated with the Champions League and its name and marks are the sole and exclusive property of CONCACAF. Further detail included in the SCCL Commercial Regulations.

D. Clubs may not license any media rights for Champions League, including television, radio, and internet. Further detail included in the SCCL Commercial Regulations.

E. Participating Clubs may use the names and marks of the Champions League only for the purpose of promoting their home and away matches and without any commercial branding other than the SCCL Commercial partner brands. All materials have to be preapproved by CONCACAF in writing.

F. Under no circumstances whatsoever, may Clubs utilize Champions League names and marks in conjunction with any corporate sponsor, except for the Champions League corporate sponsorship bar that will be provided to all Clubs, and which must be included in all Champions League specific game promotion.

G. All ticket designs must be pre-approved by CONCACAF and may bear no corporate or partner marks other than those of official Champions League sponsors as designated by CONCACAF. The Clubs must work with CONCACAF to make sure their ticketing systems comply with this requirement and must inform CONCACAF if there are any potential issues as soon as these are identified.

H. Clubs may not produce or distribute any merchandise bearing the Competition logo inside or out of its stadium without the written permission from CONCACAF. I.

CONCACAF reserves the right to control all Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League specific merchandise sales at each SCCL home game. The Club (or its designated licensee) will have the sole right to sell event related merchandise and the right to receive 20% of merchandise revenue. Merchandise revenue refers to the gross revenue derived from the sale of programs, novelties and souvenirs relating to the event or the personalities appearing therein sold at stadium facilities during the event, less only: • • •

Applicable sales and other taxes; Duly documented credit card fees; If requested by licensee, costs of bootleg security; provided however, that bootleg security will be at a mutually agreed upon rate.

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J.

CONCACAF, as the licensor, will have the right to receive 80% of the event specific Merchandise Revenue.

K. CONCACAF has the right to produce and distribute programs for each game in the Competition, however Clubs may produce and distribute programs or other informational or printed promotional materials to fans as long as these have been approved in writing by CONCACAF and bearing that they don’t include any commercial branding other than the brands from the Competitions Commercial partners.

L. Participating Clubs agree to provide to CONCACAF the right to use the official Club marks on a royalty free basis and without restriction as described in the SCCL Commercial Regulations.

M. Participating Clubs agree to provide to CONCACAF the right to use collective and individual player images as follows: • •

Collective player images (within the scope of an action shot and with a minimum of six players of the same Club in the same photo) to promote the Competition

by CONCACAF and/or any of the Competition’s official sponsors.

Individual player images for promotion of matches exclusively by CONCACAF and the participating Clubs. Such promotional materials, aimed at ticket sales and tune-ins, bearing that they don’t include any commercial branding other than the brands from the Competition’s Commercial partners in a collective sponsor brick format.

N. Participating Clubs will provide to CONCACAF, without unreasonable delay, a high resolution electronic version of the Club logo in such format as is requested by CONCACAF. O. Participating Clubs agree to incorporate the Sponsor Logo Bar on all print game promotional advertising and in any TV broadcast game promotional spots specifically related to the Competition.

P. Participating Clubs agree to provide to CONCACAF, free of charge, the ticket and suite allotment described in detail in the SCCL Commercial Regulations.

Q. Clubs will provide to CONCACAF an allocation of space for the Competition’s Commercial partner’s activations as described in detail in the SCCL Commercial Regulations.

R. Failure to comply with the SCCL Commercial guidelines and regulations will compromise the commercial viability of the Competition. Therefore, any failure to comply will result in stiff penalties for any guilty party in accordance with these Regulations.

S.

Clubs must inform CONCACAF of any changes/updates to their official logo in a timely manner.

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XV.  MEDIA OPERATIONS AND MEDIA RELATIONS A. All participating Clubs must name an official Team Media Officer (TMO), as the principal contact for CONCACAF, where media matters are concerned. The assignment of the TMO, and any change to this assignment, should be communicated to CONCACAF Media Operations in accordance with the schedule determined and communicated at a future date by CONCACAF. B. Participating Clubs agree to adhere to the SCCL Media Regulations for Clubs, and the regulations published therein, in relation to the Champions League.

C. The Clubs must facilitate the organization of, and comply with attendance requisites for any pre- or post-game media events, including but not limited to media access to official trainings, pre-game team stadium arrivals, flash zone interviews, post-game mixed zones and post-game press conferences, and team media days in the manner requested and determined by CONCACAF. Failure to comply with mandatory media obligations could result in referral to the Disciplinary Committee.

D. In particular, CONCACAF reserves the right to allow or disallow any members of the media the benefit of access to Champions League games at its sole discretion.

CONCACAF is the ultimate authority on media accreditation and access to Champions League matches.

E. Participating teams will only provide or allow use of such media identification as is provided or approved by CONCACAF to be used by media, broadcast or other personnel. This includes bibs. Supplemental media identification in line with Club/ stadium criteria for non-Champions League matches may be permitted along with the use of the Competitions accreditation, upon consultation and agreement with CONCACAF Media Operations. Participating teams agree to implement and assist CONCACAF in applying such media credentialing process as may be required by CONCACAF and as defined by the SCCL Media Regulations.

F. No player, official, member of staff or any other person associated with any Club may publicly disparage the Competition in any respect.

XVI.   REFEREES A. The Referees, Assistant Referees, and Fourth Officials will be appointed for each match by CONCACAF. They will be selected from the FIFA International Refereeing list in force and will be neutral. The selections made by CONCACAF are final and not subject to appeal.

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B. If one of the Assistant Referees is unable to carry out his duties, such Assistant Referee will be replaced by the Reserve Assistant Referee, if a Reserve Assistant Referee (RAR) is appointed to the match in question. If no RAR is appointed to this match, the 4th official becomes the Assistant Referee (AR) and the AR becomes the 4th. In the case of force majeure, CONCACAF will, at its sole discretion, be allowed to replace any Match Official with an official from any country.

C. CONCACAF’s decisions will be final and not subject to appeal.

XVII. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS A. CONCACAF is the exclusive owner of all intellectual property rights of the Competition, including any current or future rights of CONCACAF’s names, logos, brands, music, medals and trophies. Any use of the aforementioned rights requires the prior written approval of CONCACAF, and must comply with any conditions imposed by SCCL Commercial Regulations.

B. All rights to the fixture list, as well as the matches in the Competition, are the sole and exclusive property of CONCACAF unless expressly granted to another party pursuant to these Regulations. CONCACAF will have the right to exploit the intellectual property rights as it deems appropriate in its sole discretion.

XVIII. MATTERS NOT PROVIDED FOR A. Any matters not provided for in these Regulations and any cases of force majeure will be decided by the CONCACAF Executive Committee. All decisions will be final and binding and not subject to appeal.

B. In the case of any discrepancy in the interpretation of the English, Spanish or French texts of these Regulations, the English text will be authoritative.

C. In case of discrepancy in the interpretation of these regulations, the CONCACAF interpretation will prevail.

D. The copyright of the match schedule drawn up in accordance with the provisions of these Regulations is the property of CONCACAF. E. Any waiver by CONCACAF of any breach of these Regulations (including of any document referred to in these Regulations) will not operate as, or be construed to be, a waiver of any other breach of such provision or of any breach of any other provision or a waiver of any right arising out of these Regulations or any

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other document. Any such waiver will only be valid if given in writing. Failure by CONCACAF to insist upon strict adherence to any provision of these Regulations, or any document referred to in these Regulations, on one or more occasions will not be considered to be a waiver of, or deprive CONCACAF of the right to subsequently insist upon strict adherence to that provision or any other provision of these Regulations, or any document referred to in these Regulations.

F. Enforcement: these Regulations were approved by the CONCACAF Executive Committee on June 1, 2015 and came into force immediately thereafter.

Miami, June 1, 2015 For the CONCACAF Executive Committee

CONCACAF Acting President

CONCACAF Acting General Secretary